Joshua Colley on Stepping Into Orpheus and Living the Dream in Hadestown

At the Walter Kerr Theatre, Joshua Colley is still wrapping his head around the moment, returning to Broadway in Hadestown as Orpheus, a role he has dreamed about for years. “Literally insane,” he says of the experience. “This has been a dream role forever, and the fact that I’m finally getting to do it feels actually insane every night.” Even with his deep familiarity with the show going in, Colley admits the role has continued to surprise him, revealing new layers and insights with every performance.

Coming back to Broadway at this stage in his career has been both nostalgic and new. Having started on Broadway as a child, Colley reflects on how much has changed, from vocal care to stamina, especially during demanding performance schedules. Still, being back in the same neighborhood brings a sense of familiarity. “It’s very nostalgic, but also feels brand new,” he shares, describing the experience as the perfect mix of past and present.

Taking on Orpheus has allowed Colley to fully explore his artistry. He highlights the character’s complexity, noting there are endless ways to approach the role. From playing guitar to navigating the emotional depth of the story, Colley finds joy in showcasing different facets of himself as a performer. He especially loves performing “Wait for Me” and “Doubt Comes In,” the latter marking a turning point where Orpheus’ internal struggles come to the surface.

Beyond the technical and emotional challenges, Colley emphasizes the magic of the moment. Reflecting on his first bow, he recalls thinking, “I can’t believe I’m back on Broadway… anything can happen.” It’s a full-circle realization, one rooted in passion, persistence, and the belief that dreams can become reality.

JOSHUA COLLEY (Orpheus) is a multi-talented performer who most recently starred as young ‘Captain Hook’ in Disney’s Descendants: The Rise Of Red – the latest installment of the hit musical franchise – which became the most-viewed DCOM premiere on Disney+ and the Greg Berlanti-produced Dead Boy Detectives for Netflix, based on the beloved DC Comics property. Soon after, he toured sold-out arenas around North America on the Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour, in which he performed numerous fan-favorite numbers from the adored franchises, as well as standout solo performance of “I’m Gonna Remember This,” an original song penned by Colley himself. In 2022 alone, Colley appeared in Hulu’s Sex Appeal and Love, Victor, as well as the Netflix film Senior Year. For the latter, he received great recognition amongst the all-star ensemble, which includes Rebel Wilson, Justin Hartley, Alicia Silverstone, and more. He will next be seen in the coming-of-age comedy Brian from executive producer Seth Meyers. Colley began his career in New York City as a young actor on Broadway. He is best known for his portrayal of ‘Les’ in the musical Newsies, as well as ‘Gavroche’ in the 2014 revival of Les Misérables. Colley also originated the role of ‘Young Calogero’ in A Bronx Tale at Papermill Playhouse Directed by Jerry Zaks and Robert De Niro, featuring music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Glenn Slater. In 2016, he played the titular role in The York Theatre Company’s You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown, and ‘Flounder’ in The Hollywood Bowl’s The Little Mermaid alongside Sara Bareilles, Tituss Burgess, John Stamos, and Rebel Wilson. He is also known for his viral videos (Youngest Jean Valjean Ever … Easter Bonnet 2015) and ('The Schuyler Sisters' from Hamilton get MisCast). Joshua is now working on his original music with major releases coming soon.

For more information on Hadestown visit www.hadestown.com.